Most people can’t tell the difference between drug abuse and alcoholism. While both are symptoms of alcohol abuse, alcoholism is different because it means you’re now physically dependent on the alcohol. You’ve reached a point where you can’t properly function without it. You need it so you can feel better.
Warning Signs
According to the HelpGuide.Org, there are a lot of warning signs before this happens, including:
Tolerance.
If your tolerance to alcohol increases, then you’re going to want to imbibe more to get that pleasant buzz. You’re starting to drink more than you should. And it takes a lot before you get drunk.
Withdrawal.
By drinking heavily, you train your body to live with large doses of alcohol in your system. So when you start to take the alcohol away, you experience the shakes or chills. Those are withdrawal symptoms. Other symptoms also include the following: depression, irritability, fatigue, loss of appetite, headache, shakiness or trembling. If you’re anxious or jumpy, sweating, feel nauseous or likely to vomit, having trouble sleeping—all these are signs that you’re in deep trouble.
In severe cases, withdrawal can even lead to hallucinations, seizures fever or agitation.
Asking for Help
Withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous. That’s why it’s important to seek out professional help when you want to quit. Trying to handle it alone can put you or your loved ones at risk, especially if you become violent throughout the withdrawal period.
Looking for a Facility
The things you’ll have to consider in a facility include:
- Accreditation. Be sure to check if the facility is duly accredited.
- Licensed and qualified staff. Are the staff—not just the doctors—qualified for the job?
- Treatment programs. Ask after the treatment program. Does it appeal to you? Can you see yourself doing great in there?
- Post-program Assistance. Do they offer post-program help as you try to live an alcohol-free life?
- Rapport. Do you feel comfortable there or not? Is your doctor or therapist a good one? Or do you think he’s patronizing and condescending? If you’re not getting along with your doctor, you might want to find another facility until you’ve got a doctor you can be comfortable with.
- Location. It might be better if the facility isn’t too far away from where you live. If you’re on the lookout for a rehab center in Malibu, consider dropping by Seasons in Malibu. It’s just one of the many local rehab centers you can put on your list.
Seasons in Malibu is a rehab center in Malibu. If you need assistance dealing with substance or alcohol withdrawal, we’re ready to help. Call us now.
